A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Verona for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Heraklion or Verona?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Heraklion and Verona can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Verona

Verona is a cultural, beautiful, and stunning city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Verona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Verona?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Verona. While Verona is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Heraklion is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Verona is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Verona is well known for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays.

How is Heraklion different from Verona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Verona and Heraklion. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Heraklion or Verona?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Verona.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Verona. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

Is the Food Better in Heraklion or Verona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Verona both to be excellent destinations.

Heraklion has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

Dining out in Verona is an experience not to be missed. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Is Heraklion or Verona Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Heraklion has something for everybody. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Verona. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

Is Heraklion or Verona Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great city for the beache. However, Verona is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is considered a top beach destination. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Verona is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Verona Better for its Old Town?

Verona is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Verona is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Verona?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Heraklion and Verona.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Many visitors go to Verona to go shopping. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Is Heraklion or Verona Better for Families?

Heraklion is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Heraklion offers lots of family activities. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Heraklion or Verona Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Verona are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Heraklion makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

Couples visit Verona frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

Is Heraklion or Verona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Heraklion or Verona Better for Students?

Verona is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Verona. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

Is Heraklion or Verona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Verona.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in Verona, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. ATV operates buses through the city.

Is Heraklion or Verona a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Verona are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

Verona is a very walkable destination. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Verona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Verona or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Verona?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Verona. In our opinion, Heraklion has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Heraklion than Verona. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Heraklion than Verona. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Heraklion, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Verona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Heraklion that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heraklion than Verona if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Heraklion.

One day in Heraklion or Verona?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Verona. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Verona has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Verona?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the romantic destination of Verona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Verona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Verona. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Verona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Heraklion. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Verona is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Verona, we can see that Verona is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Heraklion Expensive? and Is Verona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Verona?

Verona has a larger population, and is about 85% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Verona, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Heraklion or Verona?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Heraklion or Verona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Verona. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Verona in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Verona in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Verona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Verona this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Verona during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Verona. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Verona receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Verona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Verona. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Verona for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Verona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Verona averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Verona. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 137 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Verona. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Verona receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Verona in the Winter?

Both Verona and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Verona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Verona can be very cold. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Verona. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Verona fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Verona during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Verona. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Verona receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Verona in the Spring?

Both Verona and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Verona this time of year.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Verona in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Verona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Verona. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 169 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Verona. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Verona receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Verona and Heraklion